A total of 180 women entrepreneurs from across the Niger Delta region have commenced a business development training programme organised by the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, in collaboration with the Society of Women Accountants of Nigeria (SWAN), Port Harcourt Chapter.

Speaking during the commencement of the training at the NDDC Event Centre in Port Harcourt, the Commission’s Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, said the programme was designed to strengthen the capacity of women-led businesses, improve financial literacy and promote economic independence among women in the region.

Ogbuku, who was represented by the NDDC Executive Director, Projects, Dr Victor Antai, stated that empowering women has a ripple effect that benefits families, communities, and the nation.

He noted: “When you empower a woman, you empower the family, and by extension, the nation. That is why the NDDC management graciously approved this programme. Since the inception of this administration, there has been relative peace in the Niger Delta. I am sure that before you complete this training, you will learn something beneficial that will impact your business.”

He urged the participants to take advantage of the opportunity to improve themselves.

Also speaking at the event, the NDDC Director 2, Commercial and Industrial Development, Mr Friday Ehiorobe, said that the training was part of the Commission’s efforts to align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's initiative to support entrepreneurs and develop local capacity.

“We are here today to teach you bookkeeping and how to manage your businesses. This training is possible because the MD/CEO, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, is deeply committed to the well-being of men, women and youths, especially from the Niger Delta. Today, our focus is on women who run micro, small, and medium enterprises,” he said.

Ehiorobe urged the participants to take the training seriously, assuring them that the skills acquired would enhance the sustainability and profitability of their businesses.

In her remarks, the Chairperson of the Society of Women Accountants of Nigeria, Port Harcourt Chapter Mrs. Isioma Onwo, , said the training curriculum was developed to equip participants with practical skills in bookkeeping, financial literacy, tax awareness, and the use of accounting tools such as Excel and QuickBooks.

“By the end of our time together, you will be able to confidently keep proper records and gain insight into key areas that support the sustainability of your businesses,” she said.

PHOTO, L-R: NDDC Prof. Victor Anucha; the President, Society of Women Accountants of Nigeria, Dr Osioma Onwo; the Pioneer Chairman, Obio/Akpo District Society, ICAN, Dr. Chioma Ojukwu, and the CID Director Il, Mr. Friday Ehiorobo, during the flag-Off Ceremony of the NDDC Training for Niger Delta Women Entrepreneurs in Port Harcourt